Barteri Anubias - Anubias barteri : Aquarium Plant Profile & Care Guide
The Barteri Anubias (Anubias barteri), native to freshwater rivers and streams of West Africa, is a hardy and slow-growing aquarium plant highly prized for its tolerance to a wide range of conditions. This plant features broad, thick leaves reaching up to 30 cm in height, making it well-suited for placement in the midground to the background. Its rugged leaf structure and rhizome-based growth habit allow it to thrive when attached to hardscape elements such as driftwood or rocks. Anubias barteri is especially popular in planted aquariums and cichlid tanks due to its durability and unpalatable foliage, which most herbivorous fish tend to ignore, providing peace of mind to aquarists.
For optimal results, Anubias barteri prefers low to moderate lighting. High light levels should be avoided as they can cause algae to accumulate on its broad leaves. The plant does not require substrate planting, in fact, burying its rhizome can cause the rhizome to rot. Nutrients are primarily absorbed from the water column, so dosing liquid fertilisers encourages healthy foliage. While CO2 injection is not necessary, it can support more robust growth in high-tech setups. With its slow growth rate and minimal demands, this species is ideal for aquascapers seeking a low-maintenance, long-lasting plant to enhance hardscape features, providing a sense of ease and comfort to aquarists.
Anubias barteri propagates through rhizome division. To do this, select a healthy plant and carefully cut the rhizome with a sharp, sterile tool into sections, ensuring each piece has several leaves and root nodes. These segments can then be secured to rocks, driftwood, or other décor using thread or aquarium-safe glue. Once attached, the plant will slowly anchor itself and begin producing new shoots over time. With regular maintenance and patience, Anubias barteri will develop into an attractive and enduring centrepiece in any freshwater aquarium.
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The Science
| Common Name | Barteri Anubias |
|---|---|
| Other Common Names | Broadleaf Anubias, Anubias |
| Scientific Name | Anubias barteri |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Anubias |
| Year Described | 1860 |
Quick Facts
| Light Requirements | Low |
|---|---|
| Co2 Requirements | Low |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Propagation Method | Rhizome Division |
| Position | Midground/Background |
| Feeding Method | Water Column |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Temperature (℃) | 22 - 28 |
| Carpeting Plant | No |